2024 - Issue 136

Roundup
Written By Darren

‘Twas the Roundup before Christmas and all through the town

Museum hours were limited and most galleries shut down;

The artworks were hung for the next shows with care,

In hopes London Art Roundup would be there next year;

The artists were nestled all snug in their beds;

While visions of Tate solos danced in their heads;

I could go on, but you get the gist.

Happy Holidays, everyone!

NOTE: Most of the shows listed below are open during the holidays, but please be sure to triple check venue hours before heading out to see them.

The Barbican Library Foyer is one of my favourite hidden gem art venues in London. Whoever is curating has an uncanny knack for identifying incredibly skilled emerging and independent artists. The current exhibit showcases the members of Vision — featuring fab ceramics from Susan Brzeski, gorgeous stitchery from Liz Holliday and Kirsten Yeates, gloriously retro stained glass displays by Fiona Ashley and much more. Everything is for sale at prices that can’t be beat in case you’re looking for a last minute gift for a loved one, or just a treat for yourself!

‘Vision Art Group’ at Barbican Library (@barbicancentre) until 28 Dec

Poppy Whatmore (@poppywhatmore) has decorated giant ghoul hands with fake Santa-coloured fingernails, and I think Irene Pouliassi (@irenepouliassi) might be reacting to mass consumer fashion, but these un-festive window displays appear to have nothing to do with Christmas, which might be why I love them so. And especially because they make me laugh, like the ‘world record pending’ artwork from Ant Hamyln (@anthamlyn). With three other artists, these windows are lit 24/7 and can be seen from the street anytime. Just drop by!

‘Window Wonderland’ at Bomb Factory (@thebombfactoryartfoundation) until 05 Jan

My opinion about the mirrored works by Anish Kapoor (@dirty_corner) tends to waver between high art and conceptual gimmick, but it’s hard to stop your jaw from dropping when you experience their meticulous precision and production refinement that enables hyper-realistic reflectivity. These six purpleish concave mirrors look like all-seeing orbs that follow you around the room, until you get close enough to see your movements and reflection flip. It’s apt art for a selfie-obsessed, navel gazing world.

‘Anish Kapoor’ at Lisson Gallery (@lisson_gallery) until 11 Jan

Es Devlin (@esdevlin) has a broad brush approach to art and set design that has never been subtle, but some messages need to be hammered home as simply and straightforward as possible. By drawing, and drawing out stories from, 50 refugees who all call London home, this show is a poignant reminder that much of the city’s strengths come from the vast diversity that’s only possible when we listen and have empathy towards others seeking sanctuary. If you can, sit for the entire 10 minute projection sequence.

‘Face to Face: 50 Encounters with Strangers’ at Somerset House (@somersethouse) until 12 Jan

Half art. Half sustainable fashion. 100% joy. This design-museum style exhibition showcases the output from 26 workshops that Celia Pym (@celiapym) conducted with the Surrey Square Primary School community in Southwark. It’s a fun and fascinating reminder that it’s much easier to “make do and mend” than most people realise, which is why some basic skills are being taught in the gallery. Check the website to sign up for free sock mending and darning workshops, or just show up and have a go at the self-service area. General entry is free, and no booking is required.

‘Socks: The Art of Care and Repair’ at NOW Gallery (@nowgalleryse10) until 09 Mar

PLUS…

Darren
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2024 - Issue 135